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Weeping Alaskan Cedars turning brown #808663

Asked August 29, 2022, 9:01 PM EDT

Planted in 2014 (5 ft tall). Have done well.  Most years, we dont use the sprinkler system.  This is the first year the trees developed a lot of brown leaves.  Tree's are approximately 20 ft tall now.  We have not changed anything since they were planted.  Soil is mostly clay.  I think its getting worse and trying to figure out what the problem is. 

Multnomah County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your question, David.  Your trees appear to be experiencing extensive flagging, explained here:  https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/cedar-cedrus-spp-cedar-flagging
This is a (potentially deadly) combination of heat, less water, and what may be crowding of the trees, so the roots compete with each other for water and nutrients.  I suggest that you begin irrigating until the rains begin, and see if the loss of foliage at least slows down.  Good luck!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 30, 2022, 11:27 AM EDT

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